RN supervisor LTC

[Bamanurse1]

:redbeatheHello. I accepted a position as RN supervisor in a LTC facility. My background is in ICU and Cardiology, so I have cared for a lot of geriatric patients. I feel my critical thinking skills, along with the fact that I am a very caring individual, make this an excellent area for me to excel in. The problem in LTC is that the facility I work for is way understaffed, IMHO. I have addressed this with the DON, since I am under her supervision, and she doesn't see that 4 nurses caring for almost 200 patients, along with 5-6 CNA's as a problem. She states, "We only had 3 nurses when I came here." Well, I have been stuck numerous times working the medcart, sometimes on a hall all by myself with 70 patients and 2 CNA's, and RN supervisor of the entire facility at the same time. Talk about SCARY!! We have had numerous falls lately, and I blame a lot of them on being understaffed, but no one listens to me. I worked way too hard for this nursing license to lose it. I LOVE my patients, and they deserve much better care than this. I am so mad and sad at the same time. I love my job, but can I, and should I stay? Please give me some honest advice.

Thanks!!!:redbeathe

[jjjoy, LPN]

If you haven't already done so, may I suggest posting your dilemma on the LTC and/or DON forums?

I feel for you and wish I had an easy answer for you. Keep us informed on how you proceed - if you're able to influence any change or if you end up getting out or whatever. My thoughts are with you!:redpinkhe